Gorgets

Gorgets

A Gorget was used mainly in the Medieval times to protect the neck of a knight. Gorgets were made of
steel and often covered clavicles and sternum. At first, a gorget was designed to protect the throat
against swords and other weapons. In 18th Century; however, it was used mainly for decoration of the
military uniforms. In Medieval times the gorgets were worn under cuirass. The gorgets supported the
weight of armor that was worn over it. During the Renaissance, gorgets were worn without the cuirass
and only over regular clothing. Many times, gorgets were decorated with etchings, enamel or
engraving. Gorgets were actually the last piece of plate armor that was worn on battlefields.